South Korea will meet Belgium on Thursday in in their final match of Group H, with faint hopes of advancing.

While Belgium secured a spot in the knockout stages, after successive wins over Algeria and Russia, South Korea have only managed to draw against Russia, succumbing to Algeria 2:4 and now find themselves between a rock and a hard place.

Should Hong Myung-bo’s side wish to qualify they need to beat the Belgians, and hope for a narrow Russian win over Algeria or a draw.

The Belgians can still lose their top spot with a defeat on Thursday, should Algeria beat the Russians, which in turn would mean facing Group G’s likely winner Germany. In order to avoid such a scenario Marc Wilmots’ side would need to better their display in the first two matches. The Belgians, considered the dark horses of the comeptition, have failed to live up to their full potential despite managing to get away with 6 points in their first two games.

Expect a bit of a reshuffle in the Korean defence, as Myung-bo has repeatedly expressed his concern over the defensive performance against Algeria. Belgium may finally be able to play freely, knowing the pressure of advancing is behind them, and perhaps we will finally get to see what all the fuss was about.

101GG Prediction: South Korea 2 – Belgium 3

Some essential facts and stats to help with online betting:

This will be the fourth game involving these sides and third to have taken place in a World Cup.

South Korea have never beaten Belgium.

Belgium have conceded just twice across the three previous matches played against South Korea.

Sandy Martens bagged a brace during Belgium’s 2-1 victory over South Korea in June 1999; the last time these sides met.

South Korea have won one of their last seven World Cup group games.

24 of South Korea’s 31 World Cup goals have come after half-time (including one extra-time goal).

South Korea have conceded 11 goals in their last four World Cup group matches – they conceded six in their preceding eight first phase fixtures.

Belgium’s last five World Cup goals have come in the final 20 minutes of matches.

Belgium come into this game having kept a clean sheet for the first time in eight World Cup fixtures.

Belgium are unbeaten in eight World Cup group stage games.

All three of Belgium’s goals at this tournament have been scored by substitutes.